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Wave of Change: Kinne Center, new furniture and more

While students are away for the summer, Jacksonville University is taking the time to make improvements across campus, prioritizing those most requested by students. 

Last fall, nearly 600 students shared their input about what they wanted to see changed on campus. Of that group, 30 students participated in three, hour-long focus groups to better understand their responses to the survey. Those groups represented students from different demographic groups, academic majors and campus organizations.

From there, President Tim Cost and a group of campus staff and administrators met to determine the best approach to these changes that would have the greatest impact on students’ experience on campus.

Whether it was more places to relax between classes or improvements made in residence halls, those ideas were heard and changes are being implemented in response. 

While some, like the renovations to the Kinne University Center, are more involved and visible, others will make smaller, but significant positive impacts on campus life. Take a look below at what’s happening so far this summer, and stay tuned for updates on these projects and the completions of others all across campus. 

These improvements will be completed in phases throughout the summer. Here’s a look at what’s underway, and what is already completed. Stay tuned for more updates in the coming months.

Kinne University Center

Renderings of the renovations to the Kinne Center.

Renovations are underway on the large banquet room within Kinne University Center to create a more modern and functional space for students. The goal of this renovation project is to create an inviting, multi-purpose space for students that would be accessible 24 hours a day. Now we are moving forward on plans to transform that banquet space with sleek updates, including new windows, flooring, lighting, furniture, and 24/7 access. While construction timelines can be challenging to predict in the current climate, we expect renovations to be completed this fall. 

Outdoor furniture at Chick-fil-A and Nelms Plaza

Students looking for a place to relax, eat and socialize between classes will be pleased to find brand new furniture outside Chick-fil-A and new cushions in the Nelms Plaza. These comfortable spots are ideal for enjoying the Florida sunshine on campus.

Commuter lounge

For students who live off-campus, there will be a refreshed space for them to spend time in between classes. New furniture has been added to the commuter lounge so they can get comfortable without having to return home during the day.

Oak Hall lobby

Oak Hall residents will have more places to gather with friends thanks to new couches, chairs and tables in the building’s common area. 

The Villages appliances

Shiny stainless steel appliances were installed in the Village Apartments over the summer, giving the kitchens an updated look.

By Katie Garwood